Discover the transformative power of sustainability initiatives in the UAE as we delve into the impact of bottle return schemes.
Plastic pollution is a global crisis, and the UAE is no exception. While the country has been actively addressing the issue of plastic pollution, recognizing its environmental impact, and striving to implement measures to mitigate its effects, waste management remains a significant challenge. Before we dive into the sustainable initiatives and plastic recycling efforts taking effect across the country, let’s take a look at how we are faring as a community in terms of our consumption.
Estimates tell us that the UAE generates around 1.5 million tons of plastic waste annually, where plastic bags, bottles, and containers are noted as the major contributors. It’s also alarming that the Per capita plastic consumption in the UAE is among the highest in the world, reaching around 198 kg per year, as compared to the global average of 43 kg. With a better understanding of these figures, the government, businesses, and sustainable NGOs in the country are now in the process of formulating and implementing strategies and policies to curb plastic pollution. And one of the most notable ones is the plastic bottle return scheme. Let’s learn more about it in this blog.
Plastic Recycling in the UAE
Plastic is one of the most versatile materials in the manufacturing industry; which is why we find it everywhere around us. A lot of our everyday products are plastics, including containers, water bottles, car parts, household appliances, and shopping bags. Due to its non-biodegradable nature and overuse, millions of tons of plastic waste end up in landfills and oceans across the globe. This is why plastic recycling is the need of the hour.
Today, more and more countries and governments are becoming socially responsible, resonating with the collective eco-consciousness of the people residing in these regions. The UAE and the rest of the Middle East are now focused on implementing and ensuring the success of sustainable initiatives that have the potential to change the future. This is where plastic recycling initiatives come in.
Presently, the national recycling rate for plastic is around 4%, which is lower than the global average of 9%. To bridge this gap, the UAE has implemented regulations and legislation to control and manage plastic pollution. For instance, as of January 2024, a blanket ban has been issued on certain single-use plastic items in the UAE. Resolutions such as these ultimately help the cause- reducing plastic consumption in the country and encouraging the use of sustainable alternatives.
Understanding Plastic Bottle Deposit Return Schemes
The UAE government has set an ambitious goal of increasing the plastic recycling rate to 50% by 2025. To support this vision, several initiatives are underway, including the Plastic bottle deposit return schemes (DRS) in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Under this initiative, consumers can return used plastic bottles and cans to enjoy certain rewards.
A DRS incentivizes recycling by charging a small deposit on beverage containers, which consumers get back when they return the empty bottles or cans to designated collection points. This creates a closed-loop system, encouraging responsible disposal and boosting recycling rates.
Presently, the UAE government is focused on expanding DRS programs nationwide, ensuring plastic recycling is accessible to everyone. In the long run, this not only improves recycling rates but also helps in building a robust waste management infrastructure. Let’s take a look at some of the pioneering DRS initiatives in the UAE-
- The Environment Agency in Abu Dhabi (EAD) spearheaded a pilot program in 2023, installing 70 Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) and 26 Smart Bins across the emirate. These machines accept plastic bottles and reward the users with points that can be redeemed for donations or discounts.
- RECAPP, an app-based recycling platform partnered with Masdar City to implement the UAE’s first reward-based DRS. The company’s RVMs offer points for plastic bottles and cans that are redeemable for vouchers and other rewards.
Abu Dhabi’s EAD aims to collect 20 million fewer bottles annually, while RECAPP targets an additional 20 million through their RVMs.
Although the long-term impact of these plastic DRS sustainable initiatives is yet to be understood, they are currently showing some promising results. More than anything else, these schemes raise awareness, encourage responsible consumer behavior, and contribute to a circular economy for plastic. The reward system is expected to encourage a lot more of the country’s citizens and residents to take action until the need for plastic recycling becomes ingrained as a healthy habit in their lives.
Sustainable Initiatives: The Future of DRS
In short, plastic bottle DRS is a powerful tool in tackling plastic pollution. By incentivizing responsible disposal, raising awareness, and promoting a circular economy, these schemes can turn the tide on plastic waste in the UAE. With that said, consumers, businesses, and policymakers must join forces to ensure the success of these initiatives and pave the way for a cleaner, greener future.
Remember, even small changes can make a big difference. Be a part of the solution by choosing reusable alternatives, recycling whenever possible, and supporting initiatives that promote responsible waste management.
To learn more about plastic recycling and the DRS schemes currently underway in the country, check out our blogs and resources.
Sources:
https://www.gorecapp.com/recycling_plastic
https://www.ecomena.org/plastic-uae/
https://www.thenationalnews.com/opinion/2023/04/11/recycling-in-the-uae-waste-segregation/
